Phoenix
“Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix”
4 out of 5

Listening to Phoenix, a band who’s actually from Versailles, France (not Arizona), you’d never even guess that English isn’t their first language. Phoenix started as the backing band for fellow Frenchies’ Air in 2000 and after a lot of bouncing around Europe, 3 LPs and a live album they’ve released Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, possibly their most all around solid album yet.

This fourth album contains all the carefree feeling of summer you could ask for while keeping everything dancy and fun at the same time. Based around the turmoil and popularity of classical 19th century composer Franz Liszt from Hungary (Google him!), the overly catchy chorus of “Lisztomania” will have you hooked in a minute. Keeping in theme of late 19th, early 20th century, “1901” shows just how well Phoenix can craft yet another impressive album of poppy, slightly synthy goodness.

Key Tracks: “Lisztomania,” “1901”

-Melissa Virzi

_______________________________________________

Liechtenstein
“Survival Strategies in a Modern World”
4 out of 5

If the indie world held an award for “Breakout Label of the Year,” Slumberland Records could very well be walking to the podium. Of course their acceptance speech would mention Crystal Stilts and The Pains of Being Pure At Heart; perhaps Scottish indie rockers Bricolage. But it would be the debut LP from Sweden’s Liechtenstein that wrapped up matters.

This all-female threesome got the label’s attention via several strong singles in their homeland and wrote this 9-song, 23-minute treasure early this year. Love Vivian Girls and always wished you could clone them? You’re in luck, and this trio might be even better at weaving lo-fi bubblegum harmonies. Have a thing for shoegaze guitars? Don’t even get me started.

With the average track clocking in at 2-and-a-half minutes, Liechtenstein’s opening statement is over almost as soon as it starts. What will stick around is their lo-fi charm and unsuspecting pop sensibility.

Key Tracks: “Wallpaper Stripes,” “Roses in the Park,” “Postcard”

-Chris Payne

Interview with Rockabilly Legend ROBERT GORDON at 8 PM.
Followed by KOSTAS PETRUS – live in the studio –

Open your mind.